driving...

I'm wondering how long you waited or had to wait to drive again. I haven't driven yet b/c they said I wasn't cleared when I left the hospital...but I'm now 11 days post op, not using my pain meds (except the occasional Tylenol) and I would really like to drive...to go somewhere...ALONE! I was just wondering what your experiences were like...

Thanks!

My husband was driving within a week. He quit using pain meds in the hospital and did not use a single one when he got home (he didn't seem to need it though, either).

I was told by my surgeon and nurse practicioner, don't drive until you finish with the pain pills, because they don't want you to drive under the influence, which makes sense. I was off all pain meds after about three or four days, and I drove no problem, had to get out alone even it was just to the store, so I would say if your not taking pain pills go for it!!

We were told once you are 24 hours pain meds free.  My husband and I had it at the same time and we had to go to the doc's office 3 days post op because one of my incisions got infected and they had to see me to work me in and we had no time to make other arrangements.  I would think you be fine now.  :) Good luck!

Yay!!! I'm going for a drive tonight!!! I need to get out...spring break and my (very wonderful) kids all over and my mom here to help and oh boy...I just need some space!

I was driving 5 days out . I was not taking and pain meds anymore.
Julie

i was just told as long as i was not taking pain meds i could drive.

I had surgery Monday and I drove yesterday and today with no problems.

i was told as long as i'm not taking pain meds and my incisions don't hurt it was fine. they said if incisions hurt it might make my reaction time slower when/if i need to move quickly and hesitate because of pain.